HOW WE WORK
We start by understanding your rail yard.
Every rail yard operates differently. Communication practices, the way switches are controlled and the goals of the operation all play a role in designing the right system.
That's why we start by understanding your rail yard.
Discovery
01
Understand Your Goals
Every project begins with a conversation.
We'll learn what you're trying to accomplish, why you're considering automatic switch machines and what success looks like for your team. Whether you're replacing aging equipment, improving safety, increasing throughput or expanding remote control capabilities, we'll start by understanding your objectives.
Discovery
02
Learn Your Operation
Once we understand your goals, we'll take a closer look at how your yard operates today.
Depending on the project, we may review:
- Yard layout and track drawings
- The switches you want to automate
- Existing communication methods
- Current control systems or yard management software
- Safety procedures and operating practices
- Site measurements and photos
- Power availability
- Environmental conditions that could affect the installation
The more we understand about your operation, the better we can design a solution that fits.
Configuration
03
Configure Your System
Using what we've learned, we'll determine the components needed for your project.
That may include:
- Automatic switch machines
- Controls
- Signals and indication lights
- Electrical enclosures
- Power systems
- Occupancy detection
- Communications
- Integration with your existing yard management system or implementation of ARS Pathfinder™
Every project is different. We'll configure a system based on your operation—not a one-size-fits-all package.
Configuration
04
Review the Design
Before moving forward, we'll develop drawings and documentation that show how the proposed system will be installed and operate.
This gives everyone an opportunity to review the design, ask questions and confirm that the solution meets your operational needs before equipment is ordered.
Configuration
05
Review Your Proposal
Once the design is complete, we'll provide a proposal outlining the recommended equipment, project scope, pricing and estimated timeline. We'll review everything with you and answer any questions before the project moves forward.
Delivery
06
Install & Commission
Our team will coordinate installation, testing and commissioning to make sure the system is operating as designed. We'll also provide any training your team needs to get up and running with confidence.
Support
07
Ongoing Support
Our relationship doesn't end after installation.
Whether you need technical support, additional equipment or help planning your next project, we'll continue to support your operation as your needs evolve.
A good process starts
with a good partnership.
The best switch system is built by understanding how your rail yard operates and working through the details together.
From the first conversation to the time of installation, you'll work with people who understand rail operations and take the time to get the solution right. We'll ask questions, review drawings, talk through options and make recommendations based on what makes sense for your operation.
When questions come up, we're available. When conditions change, we'll adjust. And long after the installation is complete, we're here to help you get the most from your investment.
Why customers choose ARS
01
We learn before we recommend.
Every project starts by understanding your operation before we configure a solution.
02
We engineer complete systems.
From switch machines + controls to communications, detection + yard management, we design systems that work together.
03
We stay involved.
Planning, installation, commissioning + ongoing support are all part of the relationship.
Is switch automation
a fit for your rail yard?
Explore the types of rail operations that benefit from automatic switch systems.